The United Nations has expressed concern over the killings witnessed in parts of the country during Saba Saba Day protests on Monday, July 7.
In a statement on Tuesday, July 8, the UN also expressed concerns over the destruction of property and the use of force by security agencies.
“We are deeply troubled by the killings yesterday of at least 10 people, as well as looting and destruction of property in Kenya as police and other security forces responded to violent protests in the capital Nairobi and at least 16 other counties.
"Lethal ammunition, rubber bullets, tear gas, and water cannons were used,” the statement read.
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The UN noted that this recent violence is not an isolated event, as it comes barely two weeks after 15 protesters were killed during the June 25 demonstrations.
As such, UN High Commissioner for Human Rights Volker Türk has called for accountability and respect for human rights.
“It is very concerning that these latest incidents come barely two weeks after 15 protesters were reportedly killed and many more injured in Nairobi and other parts of Kenya on 25 June.
"UN High Commissioner for Human Rights Volker Türk renews his call for calm and restraint, and full respect for the freedoms of expression, association and peaceful assembly. It is essential that legitimate grievances at the root of these protests are addressed," the statement added.
With citizens and rights groups demanding justice for the victims, the UN pointed out the importance of credible investigations and insisted that those responsible must be held to account.
“We note that the police have announced an investigation into earlier incidents. The High Commissioner repeats his call for all reported killings and other alleged violations and abuses of international human rights law, including with respect to the use of force, to be promptly, thoroughly, independently, and transparently investigated. Those responsible must be held to account," the statement further read.
On Monday, the National Police Service (NPS), a total of 567 individuals were arrested on Monday, July 7, following widespread unrest during the Saba Saba Day.
Additionally, the agency noted that the protests left 11 people dead, and 52 police officers injured and led to significant property damage.
NPS said 12 police vehicles, three government vehicles, and four civilian vehicles were damaged during the skirmishes.
